Kyle Lowry, Ryan Anderson and the All-NBA Most Improved Team

Every year there is a group of distinguished players who exceed expectations. Whether the cause is an increase in minutes, new coach, positive attitude or a newfound maturity in their game, the new NBA season ushers in the next batch of breakout stars.

Last year, Kevin Love became the breakout athlete of the year, as he was awarded not only his first All-Star appearance but also the NBA Most Improved Player Award. Sure, this year's candidates aren't nearly as talented as Love, but this group of players is nothing to scoff at.

Starting Small Forward: Danilo Gallinari

Doug Pensinger/Getty ImagesDanilo Gallinari

Last Season (with Denver): 14.7 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 1.6 APG

This Season: 16.2 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 2.9 APG

Danilo Gallinari has become an absolute stud for the Denver Nuggets. After years of wondering whether or not the 6'10" small forward would ever tap into his vast potential, it seems as if this promising talent will be a franchise cornerstone, along with point guard Ty Lawson.

This season, this versatile wing is leading the extremely deep and talented Nuggets to a blazing 12-5 start—not bad for a team that just lost their star player in Carmelo Anthony.

Starting Power Forward: Ryan Anderson

After years of being buried on the bench behind former Orlando Magic starter Rashard Lewis, Ryan Anderson has finally received the opportunity to start.

Needless to say, the former University of California star has excelled alongside Dwight Howard with the increase in minutes. When Superman is doubled in the paint, he has the luxury to kick the ball out to one of the premier three-point shooters in Anderson.

Anderson is a strong candidate to take home the NBA Most Improved Player Award come the end of the year.

Backup Big Man: JaVale McGee

Coming into the season, the Washington Wizards were expected to have a successful campaign with their talented, young group.

However, the team has been downright awful.

Not only does this lazy squad possess a dismal 2-13 record but they seem lackadaisical at times.

Still, their lanky center, JaVale McGee, has actually stepped up his game in the midst of all these defeats. Despite many questioning whether or not the three-year big man is committed to winning, McGee has shown the ability to be a behemoth under the basket.